The suicide rate continues to be a concern in rural and remote NSW.
In all states, the rate among those who live outside capital cities is higher than that for city residents.
The Land and RAMHP have partnered to get more people talking about mental health. To mark World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 and R U OK? Day on September 14, today’s Friday Forum (September 8) at noon will focus on rural suicide prevention.
Our expert panel will discuss issues such as preventing suicide and providing support; how to tell if someone is thinking about suicide and what to do; how to have a difficult conversation; how to reduce stigma, and understanding bereavement.
The panel includes Susan Beaton, a psychologist with 30 years’ experience in suicide prevention. She has advised beyondblue and Lifeline’s national office.
Sue Murray is chief executive officer at Suicide Prevention Australia.
Susan Vaughan led StandBy Support After Suicide across Far North Queensland and now helps agencies support rural and remote communities.
Trevor Hazell has been working in the field of suicide prevention for 20 years, and now manages the suicide prevention programs at the Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health.
- The forum is not a crisis service. Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or visit the RAMHP website for contacts for a range of services.